A Rights group, Campaign for Democracy (CD) in Anambra State has raised the alarm over alleged extortion at the ongoing National Identification Number (NIN) registration exercise in Onitsha.a
The chairman of the group, Comrade Ekene Nbadi who stated this on Friday, alleged that subscribers who wanted attention, depending on their desperation level paid as much as N3000 to N4000.
He said, “We lament the high rate of extortion going on in NIMC centres, particularly in Onitsha South Local Government Area. We got information that they collect as much as 3,000 to 4,000, depending on how desperate the individual is.
He further regretted that efforts to stop the action had been futile, calling for government intervention.
he added that if you didn’t pay, you won’t be registered. “They don’t have any option other than to pay. Refusal will amount to not being registered. It’s either you pay or forfeit the process.
“We’ve sent our men there to caution them to stop, but they didn’t listen to them. That’s why we’re raising this alarm so the world will know.
The group also called on the government to establish other centres, including banks and government offices to decongest the already saturated outlets.
He said, “As I’m talking to you now, there are no less than 500 stranded people, waiting for their turn. They normally count the number they can handle per day, and each day can’t be more than 200.”
Mrs Bibian Ekweonwu, the State Coordinator of the Commission, denied the alleged extortion, explaining that the money she had in the bank was legal.
However, she blamed the slow pace of the exercise on poor internet service, appealing to residents to be patient and always adhere to instructions meant to enable staff serves them better.
Source: TheNationOnline
